Nothing is isolated. If we
look at isolated events and try to judge the goodness of Godís providence by
them, we will always fail to see it. Providence uses all things together like
gears and wheels in a great piece of machinery. Be sure you mark that word ďworkĒ. Paul does not say all things have worked together for good, or all
things shall work together for good,
or all things somehow turn out good!
He says, ďAll things work together for
good.Ē

Godís providence is good, always good, wondrously good! What does Paul mean when he
says that ďall things work together for
goodĒ? He does not necessarily mean that all things work together for our
immediate good, or our temporal good; but for our spiritual, eternal good. More
importantly, he means for us to understand that all things work together for
the eternal, spiritual, collective good of all Godís elect. Yet, the promise of
our text is that God graciously works all things together for my good. Without
question, that which is good for Godís elect collectively and good for his
glory is good for me!

That which is truly good for me is very often the exact opposite of
that which is presently good. I have corresponded for a number of years with some
dear saints of God who were converted in prison, men who are still
incarcerated. One of them wrote to me a while back, and said, ďIf I had not been in prison for murder, I
would never have learned the gospel.Ē He understands Paulís doctrine in
Romans 8:28.

Godís providence is always executed in the wisest manner possible, too.
We may not
be able to see the reasons and causes for specific events in our lives, in the
lives of others, or in the history of the world. But our lack of understanding
does not prevent us from believing God. We bow to his will, which is evident in
his works of providence, and worship him (Rom. 11:33).

All the works of Godís adorable providence are executed in perfect
holiness and righteousness. Even the way he uses the evil works of men and
devils is totally free of sin on his part. Though he has predestined and
permits deeds of wickedness, sin cannot be imputed to the Almighty.

All Godís providential works are executed with the irresistible power
of his omnipotence. Everything that comes to pass in time is brought to pass by Godís
sovereign providence, according to his eternal purpose which he purposed in
himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. He works all things after
the counsel of his own will. His counsel always stands. He always does all his
pleasure in all things everywhere.

Godís providence demands and deserves our unceasing praise. John Gill
wrote, ďWe
should give to him the glory of all; observe with wonder and gratitude, the
various steps of it (his providence) respecting ourselves and others; and put
our trust in him for things temporal and spiritual; and at all times cast our
care upon him, who cares for us; seeing it is, and always will be, well with
the righteous, in time and to all eternity.Ē